Globalization and national responses: The case of korea

Abstract

In this paper, I first present a definition of globalization focused on deepened international interdependence, proliferation of relevant actors, and increased complexity of issues and problems, which all demands more effective multisectoral, collaborative problem-solving. Drawing on the existing literature on the nature and impact of globalization, I develop a typology of national responses to globalization. Using the typology, I examine the case of Korea and observe that successive Korean governments over the past few decades have all pursued a “bandwagoning” strategy, putting too much emphasis on accepting and adapting to neoliberal globalization. Considering that neoliberal globalization represents only one type of globalization, I suggest that Korea needs to pursue a more flexible national strategy to deal with multiple types of globalization. Flexibilization of Korea’s globalization strategy should begin with a careful examination of other countries’ strategies and a thorough assessment of those conditions that could enable Korea to utilize a transformative globalization strategy in alliance with other actors in global governance. © 2011 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. All rights reserved.